“I was not striving for promotion, Gedge, but to save our fellow-countrymen and women yonder. But listen: in case I faint again—give me a scrap or two more snow, my lad.”
He took and sucked the icy particles handed to him, and felt refreshed.
“Now, then,” he said; “listen once more, and be quick. Just tie that bandage, and then put the food together. I am not going to load you with instructions which you may not be able to carry out, but look yonder—there is the top of the mountain you have to skirt, shining bright and hopefully in the distance.”
“I can see it, sir.”
“That is your guide. Once you compass that the way will be easier.”
“Yes, sir. When ought I to start?”
“To-night, man, as soon as the sun is down; therefore, mark well where the bright peak lies, so as to take your bearings. The enemy’s fire will enable you to avoid that danger. Quick; there is no time to spare; and remember—you must get there.”
“Yes, sir; I won’t forget.”
“Leave me some cartridges to defend myself, if I can. It would be more like a soldier to die like that.”
“Yes, sir, o’ course; more English and plucky,” said Gedge, giving the last bandage its final knot, and then opening his haversack to take out what it contained and divide it.